Led by Michaela Walker, Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP’s ‘strong’ team advises fund managers on open- and closed-end real estate funds and alternative and emerging asset classes, including student and affordable housing and build-to-rent. The firm has recently advised on LTAF and RIF structures, as well as EU SFDR and UK SDR compliance. Richard Batchelor, described as ’brilliant’ for his commercial acumen and market knowledge, advises on fund establishment, listing, restructuring, and reconstruction in the UK and offshore financial centres, while also being active in policy development. Stefanie Sahla-Jones acts for funds, asset managers and institutional investors, while Sarah Burnside covers fund launches, capital raisings, restructuring, investments and ESG regulatory compliance. Other key figures include Grace Li, who demonstrates ‘impressive’ skill in complex fund formation.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Richard's highly skilled team works seamlessly to deliver for clients.’
‘Richard Batchelor is brilliant to work with. His manner in transactions is calm and conducive to getting the best outcomes for clients. Grace Li is a talented associate who is responsive and impressive in challenging situations.’
‘I recommend Sarah Burnside and Grace Li. Sarah has really helped us with new business and has been across the commercial drivers from the outset.’
'Richard Batchelor and Grace Li are a strong and highly commercial team. They understand the client's needs and are pragmatic with client requests. They collaborate across the business to fulfil client needs and are always highly responsive and willing to discuss options and issues.'
'Richard Batchelor’s commercial stance and knowledge of the market make him different from competitors. We trust he understands what we want and is able to achieve our outcomes in a collaborative manner. Grace Li mirrors Richard’s style and work ethic, and between them, they make a strong team. Grace is hardworking and steps up when the pressure is on.'
Key clients
- Legal & General Investment Management
- Schroders Capital
- Columbia Threadneedle
- LGPS Central
- Nuveen
- London LGPS CIV
- Royal London
- Voltesso
- Aviva
- AEW
- Townsend Group
- Tritax
Work highlights
Advising South Yorkshire Pension Fund on divesting of its £260 million portfolio of agricultural assets, on its relationship with Royal London Asset Management, the legal and tax structure of the fund, the seeding of the assets into the Fund and the negotiation of the terms.
Acted for Aviva on the launch of its Long Term Asset Fund (“LTAF”), investing in real assets.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Michaela Walker
Other key lawyers
Grace Li; Richard Batchelor; Stefanie Sahla-Jones; Sarah Burnside